Heroin users regularly consume Xanax, as do methadone users. In addition, approximately 40% of alcoholics regularly abuse Xanax. Alcohol is particularly dangerous when mixed with Xanax because they are both depressants; combining the two can lead to an overdose and respiratory failure.

Addiction To Xanax (Alprazolam)

Not everyone who has a prescription for Xanax develops an addiction. When you carefully follow your prescription instructions for the medication, the chance of developing a substance use disorder is low. Xanax is a federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep this medicine in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away this Xanax may harm others, and is against the law.

Is dependence the same thing as addiction?

But they can appear earlier with shorter-acting types of benzodiazepines. Xanax, one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines, is generally considered safe for short-term use, but it can cause side effects like sleepiness, headaches, lethargy, dry mouth, and memory problems. If you are taking Xanax as prescribed, check with your doctor before taking another drug or drinking alcohol. Checking with a medical expert can reveal any potentially dangerous effects from mixing substances, and this could protect you against severe injury and dependence on Xanax. Selling Xanax or giving it away may harm others, and is against the law. Before you start treatment with Xanax, tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs.

More on Substance Abuse and Addiction

• Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• There are special rules around prescribing and supplying Schedule IV controlled drugs.
• While less common, the most serious side effects of alprazolam are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
• When you carefully follow your prescription instructions for the medication, the chance of developing a substance use disorder is low.
• Some people continue taking benzodiazepines throughout their pregnancy while others follow a dose tapering schedule.
• After taking Xanax, the peak effects of the drug are typically felt within one to two hours.

Learn more about the risks and side effects of substance use disorders, including the signs of intoxication and overdose. Look into treatment options you can suggest to your loved one. Alprazolam, a medication that may cause physical dependence and, in some cases, addiction, is commonly prescribed.

Xanax vs. Ativan

Quitting Xanax suddenly can be dangerous, as it may lead to severe Natural Xanax Alternatives For Anxiety withdrawal symptoms. Medical supervision is recommended for safe detoxification. Treatment for a Xanax overdose will depend on how much of the drug was taken and whether other drugs or alcohol were also taken. In the event of an overdose, medical providers may pump the stomach to remove as much of the unabsorbed Xanax as possible. Medications such as Flumazenil may also be administered as antidotes.

However, if you have serious withdrawal symptoms, contact your doctor right away. If your symptoms feel life threatening, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. You may have an increased risk of dependence and withdrawal if you take more than 4 milligrams (mg) of Xanax per day.

Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms & Signs

Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should take alprazolam while breastfeeding. Don’t let the devastating side effects of addiction go on for another day. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and are ready to start the treatment process, call us today at . Oxford Treatment Center, American Addiction Centers’ residential rehab center in Mississippi, is ready to help you get the treatment you need today.